Language Arts

Humanities is a geography- and history-based, literature-centered examination of the human experience. Though people are shaped by different experiences--time period, culture, geography, family etc, humans and societies across time and the world have inherent similarities.

Humanities 1 is a chronological examination of our culture based on key themes construed from events in history. Special emphasis is placed on social structures and power, and how they change over time in response to stimuli.

Truth - Literature reflects the truth of the human experience.  Readers use literature to form an idea of the truth. There are multiple versions of every occurrence. Truth is based on evidence. 

Systems -  Language is a fluid system that can be mastered and manipulated for multiple purposes. Societal, cultural, and political systems influence the people that live within them.

Choice -  We can create our own paths to freedom and can make choices about when and how to express ourselves.  

Change - Language changes over time in response to stimuli. People can change the systems they live in (social, political, and cultural).

•  Literature is a window into the perspectives of another person. Reading expands understanding of the world, its people, and oneself.  

• Authors use their work to share their own beliefs and it is our job as readers to analyze their interpretations to develop our own claims. 

• Authors utilize stylistic choices to embellish their writing to draw in readers. 

• Readers utilize strategies in order to create deeper understanding of text.

• People rely on a variety of resources to obtain information, which allows individuals to question their original beliefs and views. In turn, a change of stance or perspective can proceed newly acquired information.   

• Language works as an agreed upon system that allows the world to connect and relate.

• Language is a fluid system that is constantly evolving in our world.   

• Writers convey their ideas with a specific audience in mind.  

• Writing is a multi-stage process that requires reflection and revision. 

• In writing, proper grammar mechanics and spelling promote fluency of communication and are necessary for common understanding.